Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 5

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Identify 3 commonly abused substances.
• Explain 2 negative health effects of substance abuse.
• Demonstrate how to say 'no' to peer pressure.
• Name a trusted adult you can talk to for help.
• Understand the importance of making healthy choices.

Lesson summary

This week, we're diving into a very important topic: Substance Abuse Prevention. This means learning about what substances can harm our bodies and minds, and how to make healthy choices to avoid them. In South Africa, substance abuse is a serious issue that affects families and communities. It's important for you to understand the dangers of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs so you can protect yourselves and your friends from the negative consequences. This isn't just about staying away from things; it's about building a strong foundation for a healthy and happy future. Understanding these issues now will empower you to make informed choices later.

Lesson notes

What is Substance Abuse? Substance abuse means using substances (like alcohol, tobacco, or drugs) in a way that is harmful to your health, relationships, and daily life. It's important to remember that even legal substances like alcohol and tobacco can be harmful if used incorrectly or excessively. Commonly Abused Substances in South Africa: Alcohol: This is one of the most commonly abused substances. It can come in the form of beer, wine, spirits (like brandy or vodka), and traditional brews. Excessive alcohol use can lead to liver damage, impaired judgment, accidents, and dependence. Importantly, it's illegal for anyone under the age of 18 to buy or consume alcohol in South Africa.

Tobacco: This includes cigarettes, cigars, and smokeless tobacco (like snuff). Tobacco contains nicotine, which is highly addictive. Smoking tobacco can cause lung cancer, heart disease, breathing problems, and other serious illnesses. It's also illegal to sell tobacco products to people under

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8. Cannabis (Dagga): Cannabis is an illegal drug in South Africa, although discussions about its legality for medical and recreational use are ongoing. It can be smoked or eaten. Cannabis use can impair judgment, affect memory and concentration, and increase the risk of mental health problems. Even if legalization occurs, its use for young people is harmful to their developing brains. Over-the-Counter and Prescription Medicines: These medications can be dangerous if misused. Taking too much, mixing them with other drugs or alcohol, or using someone else's prescription is substance abuse. Always follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking medication.

Inhalants: These are substances that people sniff or inhale to get a "high." They can include things like glue, paint thinner, petrol, and aerosol sprays. Inhalant abuse is extremely dangerous and can cause brain damage, heart problems, and even sudden death. Negative Health Effects of Substance Abuse: Substance abuse has many negative health effects, both short-term and long-term.

Physical Health: Alcohol can damage the liver and heart. Smoking can cause lung cancer and breathing problems. Drug use can weaken the immune system, making you more likely to get sick. Inhalants can cause irreversible brain damage and sudden death.

Mental Health: Substance abuse can lead to anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. It can also impair judgment and make it difficult to think clearly.

Social Health: Substance abuse can damage relationships with family and friends. It can also lead to problems at school or work.

Legal Problems: Many substances are illegal, and using or selling them can lead to arrest and legal consequences.

Refusal Skills: It's important to know how to say "no" to peer pressure.

Here are some strategies: Say "no" firmly and clearly: "No, thank you. I don't do that." Give a reason: "No, thanks. I'm training for soccer." Suggest an alternative: "No, thanks. Let's rather play soccer/ netball." Walk away: If someone keeps pressuring you, just leave.

Buddy up: Stick with friends who support your healthy choices.

Example Scenarios: Scenario 1: Alcohol Your older cousin offers you a sip of his beer at a family braai.

Refusal Skill Response:* "No, thank you. I'm too young to drink alcohol. It's not good for me, and it's against the law. I'd rather have some juice." Scenario 2: Tobacco A friend offers you a cigarette at school.

Refusal Skill Response:* "No, thanks. I don't smoke. Smoking is bad for your health and can give you lung cancer." Scenario 3: Dagga Some older kids at the park are smoking dagga and offer you some.

Refusal Skill Response:* "No way! That's illegal, and I don't want to get into trouble with the police. Plus, I want to keep my mind clear and healthy. I'm going to head home now." Trusted Adults: It's important to have trusted adults you can talk to about substance abuse. These could be your parents, grandparents, teachers, coaches, religious leaders, or other adults you trust and feel comfortable talking to. Guided Practice (With Solutions)

Question 1: Name two substances that are commonly abused in South Africa.

Solution: Alcohol and tobacco are two commonly abused substances in South Africa.

Commentary: This question directly tests the recall of information discussed in the 'Commonly Abused Substances' section.

Question 2: What is one negative health effect of smoking tobacco?

Solution: Smoking tobacco can cause lung cancer.

Commentary: This question assesses understanding of the health consequences of substance abuse, connecting directly to the 'Negative Health Effects' section.

Question 3: Imagine a friend offers you a cigarette. What can you say to refuse politely but firmly?

Solution: You could say, "No, thanks. I don't smoke. I'm trying to stay healthy."

Commentary: This question tests the application of refusal skills learned in the lesson.

Question 4: Who are two examples of trusted adults you could speak to about substance abuse?